Wayland dedicates Pyeatt endowed scholarship

Published 3:07 am, Thursday, December 3, 2015

Wayland President Dr. Paul Armes (right) shows Melvin and Barbara Pyeatt, of Carlsbad, N.M., the scholarship plaque that will hang in McClung Center in honor of their newly endowed scholarship.

Wayland President Dr. Paul Armes (right) shows Melvin and Barbara Pyeatt, of Carlsbad, N.M., the scholarship plaque that will hang in McClung Center in honor of their newly endowed scholarship.

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The Pyeatt family was on hand at Wayland Baptist University on Wednesday for the dedication of the Melvin and Barbara Pyeatt Endowed Scholarship. Family members include Ashley Pyeatt (left), Ian Pyeatt, Susan and Ron Pyeatt, Kathy Galvan, Melvin and Barbara Pyeatt, Dr. Niler and Sunell Pyeatt and Roxann Brannon. less

The Pyeatt family was on hand at Wayland Baptist University on Wednesday for the dedication of the Melvin and Barbara Pyeatt Endowed Scholarship. Family members include Ashley Pyeatt (left), Ian Pyeatt, Susan ... more

Wayland dedicates Pyeatt endowed scholarship

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Wayland Baptist University dedicated an endowed scholarship in honor of Melvin and Barbara Pyeatt, of Carlsbad, N.M., Wednesday afternoon, recognizing their generosity. Melvin and Barbara are the parents of Dr. Niler Pyeatt who teaches history in the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences and is the director of Wayland’s Honors Program.

“I would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Pyeatt for their dedication to higher education and to helping students achieve their educational dreams,” said Amber McCloud, director of development and donor relations at Wayland. “Your gift will impact the lives of so many students here at Wayland and for that we truly say thank you.”

The family was presented with a shadow box commemorating their scholarship dedication. A permanent plaque will hang in the McClung University Center; the inscription on which heralds the Pyeatt’s understanding of the value of education and their desire to support their children, grandchildren and others who seek to pursue an education.

“Mom and dad always modeled giving to us, whether it was of money or time, and they supported us in education,” Niler Pyeatt said.

Wayland President Dr. Paul Armes and Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Bobby Hall were on hand to personally thank the Pyeatt’s for the scholarship.

“There’s not any more important gift that can be given than one that benefits students throughout the life of the university,” Hall said.

Dr. Armes explained that nearly 95 percent of Wayland students receive financial aid and through endowed scholarship gifts, they are able to stay in school and complete their education, owing far less than the national average upon graduation.

“Gifts like yours make that possible,” Armes said.

Endowed scholarships funds are established with a minimum gift of $2,500 and are fully endowed when the balance reaches $25,000. This can be done through a one-time gift, or gifts made over a number of years. Once the principle reaches $25,000 accrued interest is used for scholarship funds.

For more information on endowed scholarships, contact McCloud at 806-291-3600.